The Glass Ceiling

We all know glass is a transparent material and it can let you see all the details. However, for various reasons, when we approach a glass wall we may not see it and bang our heads against it. The same can happen with a glass ceiling. We might think it’s not there and it doesn’t exist, but when we are the ones hitting it by accident, we realise it exists and it can be painful.

How about a glass ceiling in society? Do you think such a thing exists? Some people say it does and some others don’t believe such a thing exists. Myself, I’m inclined to say yes, it does exist. In such an open society, not many people are able to see a glass ceiling or to believe there is one at all. People, the economy, social life, ideas and politics move freely. Masses move and manoeuvre, however it is all done within certain limits and at different levels. If they are unhappy, the “doors” of the country are open for them and they can choose to leave to a better place where they might fit. This kind of dynamic horizontal semi-selective vertical movement allows some to believe there is no glass ceiling.

For example, in some countries, there are very few security personnel. This gives you a feeling of freedom, until you realise how many cameras are watching your footsteps and listening to your whispers.  In other countries, the number of security personnel is overwhelming and this might frighten and restrict your thinking.

To come back to the point, if someone wants to climb fast or unlock any sealed doors, in my opinion, they will start feeling the glass ceiling soon enough. The glass ceiling is very selective when it comes to those that fit its culture, expertise or loyalty. We must ensure there is no glass ceiling so that change makers can do what they do best.

They say the sky is the limit, but I think it's only the beginning.